Push seal pipe adapter

ABSTRACT

A push seal pipe adapter includes a grommet and a pipe adapter. The grommet fits inside the pipe adapter. The grommet includes a first adapter contact surface, a second adapter contact surface, and a third adapter contact surface. The pipe adapter includes a first grommet contact surface, a second grommet contact surface, and a third grommet contact surface. When the grommet is inserted into the pipe adapter, the first adapter contact surface of the grommet contacts the first grommet contact surface of the pipe adapter and the second adapter contact surface of the grommet contacts the second grommet contact surface of the pipe adapter. The push seal pipe adapter provides a pipe coupling end that receives a pipe. To couple, the pipe is pushed into the pipe coupling end.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 63/202,219, entitled “Push Seal PipeAdapter,” filed on Jun. 1, 2021. The subject matter of the foregoingdocument is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to fluid conveyance systems, andmore specifically, to pipe adapters.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Plumbing provides systems for conveying fluids in a wide variety ofapplications. Pipes and valves are commonly involved in such systems.Pipe adapters are typically used to connect two pipes together.Different pipe adapters are used depending on the application and thetype of pipes that are being connected together.

SUMMARY

A push seal pipe adapter includes a grommet and a pipe adapter. Thegrommet fits inside the pipe adapter. The grommet includes a firstadapter contact surface, a second adapter contact surface, and a thirdadapter contact surface. The pipe adapter includes a first grommetcontact surface, a second grommet contact surface, and a third grommetcontact surface. When the grommet is inserted into the pipe adapter, thefirst adapter contact surface of the grommet contacts the first grommetcontact surface of the pipe adapter and the second adapter contactsurface of the grommet contacts the second grommet contact surface ofthe pipe adapter. The push seal pipe adapter provides a convenient andreliable pipe coupling end that receives a pipe. To couple, the pipe ispushed into the pipe coupling end. No extra labor or adapters are neededto securely seal the pipe and the push seal pipe adapter.

In operation, the push seal pipe adapter is useful in any plumbingapplication where fittings or components need to be changed rapidly orin a semi-permanent setting without glue, threads, or other sealants.The push seal pipe adapter provides a robust and repeatable seal withoutneeding any conventional pipe adapters or costly labor. Differentapplications include commercial and residential plumbing systems, testbeds in laboratories, trade show displays, or semi-permanent dwelling orworkspaces.

Novel push seal pipe adapters are offered in an assembled or packagedfashion. Push seal pipe adapter components may be sold together orseparately. The novel grommet is manufactured to be interchangeable withother pipe adapters usable in different applications. Instructions areoptionally provided that instruct users on how to assemble or use thenovel push seal pipe adapter.

In accordance with at least one novel aspect, the grommet creates atleast three sealing surfaces with the pipe adapter and another sealingsurface with a pipe inserted through the grommet. A first seal is formedbetween the first adapter contact surface of the grommet and the firstgrommet contact surface of the pipe adapter. A second seal is formedbetween the second adapter contact surface of the grommet and the secondgrommet contact surface of the pipe adapter. After a pipe is insertedinto an assembled push seal pipe adapter, a third seal is formed betweenthe third adapter contact surface of the grommet and the third grommetcontact surface of the pipe adapter. A fourth seal is formed between aninterior circumference of the grommet and the inserted pipe.

The novel grommet is adaptable across all sizes and shapes of pipeadapters depending on the application. Each sealing surface provided bythe grommet extends circumferentially. The three sealing surfacesbetween the grommet and pipe adapter are disposed along an outer surfaceof the grommet. The sealing surface between the grommet and aninsertable pipe is disposed along an interior surface of the grommet.The grommet is formed from any malleable or non-rigid materials, such asrubber, silicon, or plastic. Use of such materials ensure that the thirdadapter contact surface of the grommet expands towards and pressesagainst the third grommet contact surface of the pipe adapter, therebyensuring optimal sealing. In another embodiment, the grommet is formedfrom at least two materials that include a rigid material, such asmetal, and a non-rigid material, such as rubber. The non-rigid portionprovides necessary expansion to provide all four novel seals.

Further details and embodiments and methods are described in thedetailed description below. This summary does not purport to define theinvention. The invention is defined by the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, where like numerals indicate like components,illustrate embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a perspective and exploded view of a push sealpipe adapter 100.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exploded cross sectional view of the push sealpipe adapter 100.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 with grommet 101 inserted into pipe adapter 102.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of an exploded perspective view of the push sealpipe adapter 100 with test cap 113.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of test cap 113.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a top perspective view of test cap 113.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of test cap 113.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after attachment of test cap 113.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after attachment of test cap 113.

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after test cap 113 has been trimmed.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 and a pipe 120 before the pipe 120 is inserted into the pushseal pipe adapter 100.

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 and pipe 120 after the pipe 120 is inserted into the pushseal pipe adapter 100.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 connected to a plumbing system 5 and installed within afinished wall 6.

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 installed.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method 1100 in accordance with one novelaspect.

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 200.

FIG. 17 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 200.

FIG. 18 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 200.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a threaded push sealpipe adapter 300.

FIG. 20 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the threaded push sealpipe adapter 300.

FIG. 21 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 300.

FIG. 22 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 400.

FIG. 23 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 400.

FIG. 24 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 400.

FIG. 25 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 500.

FIG. 26 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 27 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 28 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 29 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 30 is a diagram of cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 600.

FIG. 31 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 32 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 33 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 34 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 35 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a threaded push sealpipe adapter 700.

FIG. 36 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 37 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the threadedpush seal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 38 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the threaded push sealpipe adapter 700.

FIG. 39 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 40 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 800.

FIG. 41 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 800.

FIG. 42 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 800.

FIG. 43 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 900.

FIG. 44 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 900.

FIG. 45 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 900.

FIG. 46 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 47 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 48 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 49 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 50 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 51 is an exploded perspective view of a push seal pipe adapterattached to a U-bend trap.

FIG. 52 is an exploded perspective view of a push seal pipe adapterattached to a U-bend trap.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a push seal pipe adapter installed witha U-bend trap.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a push seal pipe adapter installed witha U-bend trap.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 withgrommet 1201 removed.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 withtest cap 1213 attached.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 withgrommet 1201 installed.

FIG. 58 is a flowchart of a method 1300 in accordance with one novelaspect.

FIG. 59 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of a grommet 1400.

FIG. 60 is a diagram of a top perspective view of grommet 1400.

FIG. 61 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the grommet 1400.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to some embodiments of theinvention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. In the description and claims, terms such as “top” or “bottom”are used to describe relative orientations between different parts ofnovel embodiments of a push seal pipe adapter, and it is to beunderstood that the overall structure being described can actually beoriented in any way in three-dimensional space. In the description andclaims, terms such as “pipe fitting” and “fitting” are used to describevarious components that could be attached to a push seal pipe adapter.It is to be understood that “pipe fitting” and “fitting” may refer tovarious pipe fittings, such as tee, wye, elbows, reducers, junctions,unions, couplings, crosses, adapters, olets, plugs, caps, or valves,sections of pipe, or other components common to plumbing systems.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a perspective and exploded view of a push sealpipe adapter 100. A push seal pipe adapter 100 comprises a grommet 101and a pipe adapter 102. The grommet 101 fits within the pipe adapter102. In FIG. 1 , the grommet 101 is shown above the pipe adapter 102.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exploded cross-sectional view of the push sealpipe adapter 100. Grommet 101 and pipe adapter 102 are in the samerelative orientation as in FIG. 1 . Grommet 101 comprises first adaptercontact surface 103, second adapter contact surface 104, third adaptercontact surface 105, pipe surface contact 106, and grommet thickness122. The first adapter contact surface 103 of grommet 101 extends in acircular fashion, forming a first diameter that extends a first distanceD1. The third adapter contact surface 105 of grommet 101 extends in acircular fashion, forming a second diameter that extends a seconddistance D2.

The grommet thickness 122 creates an inner diameter of the grommet 101that extends a distance D3. The first distance D1 is greater than thesecond distance D2. The third adapter contact surface 105 extendsperpendicular to the circular area created by the first diameter. Agrommet depth 110 extends from one side of the grommet 101 to anopposite side of the grommet 101. Second adapter contact surface 104 isperpendicular to first adapter contact surface 103. The first adaptercontact surface 103 is substantially parallel (+/−25 degrees) to thethird contact surface 105.

In accordance with at least one novel aspect, the grommet 101 has shapeand dimensions that provide significant advancements in pipe adaptersealing. The first adapter contact surface 103 has a thickness T1. Thedepth 110 D is greater than the thickness T1 of the first adaptercontact surface 103, thereby providing adequate sealing functionalityagainst an interior of the pipe adapter 102. This relationship ensuresthat the third contact surface 105 extends adequately to seal and engagethe third grommet contact surface 109 of the pipe adapter 102. Inaddition, the inner diameter D3 of the grommet 101 is greater than thelength L1 of the second adapter contact surface 104, thereby providingan adequate perpendicular seal within the pipe adapter 102. In oneembodiment, the depth 110 D is at least twice T1. In another embodiment,the depth 110 D is at three times T1. In yet another embodiment, theinner diameter D3 is more than one and a half times the length L1. Instill another embodiment, the inner diameter D3 is more than two timesthe length L1. In still yet another embodiment, the inner diameter D3 ismore than three times the length L1.

Pipe adapter 102 comprises a first pipe coupling end, a second pipecoupling end opposite the first pipe coupling end, a first grommetcontact surface 107, a second grommet contact surface 108, a thirdgrommet contact surface 109, a pipe contact surface 111, and threads112. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , the first pipe coupling end isthreaded, and the second pipe coupling end is smooth. In anotherembodiment, the first end may be smooth, straight, threaded, tapered, orshaped to accommodate a pipe or pipe fitting, and the second end may besmooth, straight, threaded, tapered, or shaped to accommodate a pipe orpipe fitting. Any combination of first coupling end attachmentconfigurations and second coupling end attachment configurations may beused to accommodate any fittings to be joined by the push seal pipeadapter 100. First pipe coupling end and second pipe coupling end attachto other pipes or fittings via press fit attachment, threadedattachment, or adhesive attachment. The diameter of the first pipecoupling end is equal to the fourth distance D4. The inner diameter ofthe third grommet contact surface of pipe adapter 102 is equal to thefifth distance D5. The distance D4 is greater than the distance D5. Inthis embodiment, the second pipe coupling end is straight and smooth, asshown by pipe contact surface 111.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 with grommet 101 inserted into pipe adapter 102. The firstadapter contact surface 103 is in contact with first grommet contactsurface 107, the second adapter contact surface 104 is in contact withsecond grommet contact surface 108. In this embodiment, not all of thethird adapter contact surface 105 is in contact with the third grommetcontact surface 109. The third adapter contact surface 105 is tapered,slanting away from the third grommet contact surface 109. In thisembodiment, distance D1 is equal to distance D4. In another embodiment,distance D1 is smaller than distance D4. In yet another embodiment,distance D1 is larger than distance D4. In still yet another embodiment,all of the third adapter contact surface 105 is in contact with thethird grommet contact surface 109.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of an exploded perspective view of the push sealpipe adapter 100 with test cap 113. Test cap 113 is made to mate with athreaded end of pipe adapter 102. Grommet 101 is inserted into pipeadapter 102. Test cap 113 is then threaded into the threaded end of pipeadapter 102. Test cap 113 is turned until it contacts grommet 101. Testcap 113 is then tightened against grommet 101 until a seal is formedbetween test cap 113 and grommet 101, and between grommet 101 and pipeadapter 102, thereby forming a seal between test cap 113 and pipeadapter 102.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of test cap 113. Test cap113 comprises a hollow cylinder with a closed end 117 and an open end118 opposite the closed end 117. The open end 118 includes threads 119around the circumference of the cylinder. The threads 119 extend alongat least part of the length of the cylinder. In one embodiment, threads119 are disposed on the outer circumference of the hollow cylinder. Inanother embodiment, threads 119 are disposed on the inner circumferenceof the cylinder. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 , a flange 114extends away from and perpendicular to the outer surface 115 of thecylinder. In another embodiment, flange 114 is not included.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a top perspective view of test cap 113. Flange114, outer surface 115, closed end 117, and threads 119 are shown.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of test cap 113. Flange114, outer surface 115, inner surface 116, open end 118, and threads 119are shown.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after attachment of the test cap 113. Grommet 101 isinserted into the threaded end of pipe adapter 102 and test cap 113threaded on to the threaded end of pipe adapter 102.

To install a push seal pipe adapter 100, grommet 101 is inserted intopipe adapter 102. In this embodiment, test cap 113 is then threaded intothe threaded end of pipe adapter 102. Test cap 113 is turned, engagingthe threads, until the open end 118 contacts grommet 101. Test cap 113is then tightened against grommet 101 until a seal is formed betweentest cap 113 and grommet 101 and between second adapter surface 104 andsecond grommet contact surface 108. When grommet 101 is compressed bytest cap 113 against second grommet contact surface 108, grommet 101also expands laterally. This lateral expansion compresses first adaptercontact surface 103 against first grommet contact surface 107, forming aseal. The compression of grommet 101 between test cap 113 and pipeadapter 102 forms a seal between test cap 113 and pipe adapter 102.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after attachment of test cap 113. Grommet 101 is insertedinto pipe adapter 102 and test cap 113 is threaded on to the threadedend of pipe adapter 102. Grommet 101 is compressed between test cap 113and pipe adapter 102, forming a sealed connection between test cap 113and pipe adapter 102. The push seal pipe adapter 100 and test cap 113unit is now attached to a pipe or pipe fitting. Framing, drywall, orother structural or finishing work through which plumbing must pass maybe completed. Test cap 113 also provides protection to the interior ofthe push seal pipe adapter 100 and the plumbing system 5, preventingdust or other contaminants from entering the interior of the push sealpipe adapter 100 while structural or finishing work is completed.Following finishing work, a portion of test cap 113 extends beyond thefinishing. If the test cap 113 is installed and the push seal pipeadapter 100 is connected to a plumbing system, such as plumbing system 5(see FIGS. 13-14 ), the connection may be tested for integrity as partof the plumbing system testing.

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 after test cap 113 has been trimmed. In FIG. 10 , the closedend 117 of test cap 113 shown in FIG. 9 has been removed, creatingtrimmed end 124. After finishing work and integrity testing of theplumbing system is complete, test cap 113 is trimmed to a length to suitthe user's needs. After trimming, the user now has access to theinterior of push seal pipe adapter 100 through trimmed end 124. The userthat installs a push seal pipe adapter 100, the user that completesstructural and/or finishing work, and the user that trims test cap 113need not be the same individual. Tradesmen do not need to communicate orcoordinate with other tradesmen to effectively use push seal pipeadapter 100 and/or test cap 113. Labor costs are significantly reducedby utilizing push seal pipe adapter 100 in various applications.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 and a pipe 120 before the pipe 120 is inserted into the pushseal pipe adapter 100. The pipe 120 is a hollow cylinder with an outsidediameter equal to or slightly greater than the third distance D3, butnot greater than the fifth distance D5.

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 and pipe 120 after the pipe 120 is inserted into the pushseal pipe adapter 100. The pipe 120 is pushed into the push seal pipeadapter 100 and the end of the pipe is pushed past the end of grommet101. The outer surface of pipe 120 is in contact with pipe surfacecontact 106. This action also compresses the grommet 101 against thethird grommet contact surface 109 of pipe adapter 102. The compressionof the grommet 101 between the outer surface of pipe 120 and thirdgrommet surface 109 forms a seal between the pipe 120 and the push sealpipe adapter 100, creating a sealed coupling between the pipe 120 andpipe adapter 102. The pipe 120 may be pushed any length past the end ofgrommet 101, provided there is no obstruction beyond the pipe adapter102, and the pipe 120 is of sufficient length.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 connected to a plumbing system 5 and installed within afinished wall 6. A U-bend trap 121 is shown prior to insertion. An arrowindicates the direction in which the U-bend trap 121 will be inserted.

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the push seal pipeadapter 100 installed and in use. Push seal pipe adapter 100 isconnected to a plumbing system 5, and installed within a finished wall6. U-bend trap 121 is connected to a plumbing fixture 123, and isinserted into push seal pipe adapter 100.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method 1100 in accordance with one novelaspect. In a first step (step 1101), a grommet and pipe adapter areformed. The grommet has a first adapter contact surface, a secondadapter contact surface, and a third adapter contact surface. The pipeadapter has a first grommet contact surface, a second grommet contactsurface, and a third grommet contact surface. In a second step (step1102), the grommet is inserted into an interior of the pipe adapter,thereby forming a push seal pipe adapter.

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 200. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 200 has a firstgrommet contact surface 201, a second grommet contact surface 202, and athird grommet contact surface 203. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 200. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 201 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 202.After a pipe is inserted into press fit push seal pipe adapter 200, thegrommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface203. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 200.

FIG. 17 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 200.

FIG. 18 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 200.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a threaded push sealpipe adapter 300. The threaded push seal pipe adapter 300 has a firstgrommet contact surface 301, a second grommet contact surface 302, and athird grommet contact surface 303. A grommet 310 in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the threaded push seal pipeadapter 300. When inserted, the grommet 310 is in contact and forms aseal with first grommet contact surface 301 and the grommet 310 is incontact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 302.After a pipe is inserted into threaded push seal pipe adapter 300, thegrommet 310 contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface303. The grommet 310 forms a seal with the pipe inserted into thethreaded push seal pipe adapter 300.

FIG. 20 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the threaded push sealpipe adapter 300.

FIG. 21 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 300.

FIG. 22 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 400. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 400 has a firstgrommet contact surface 401, a second grommet contact surface 402, and athird grommet contact surface 403. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 400. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 401 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 402.After a pipe is inserted into press fit push seal pipe adapter 400, thegrommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface403. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 400.

FIG. 23 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 400.

FIG. 24 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 400.

FIG. 25 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 500. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 500 has a firstgrommet contact surface 501, a second grommet contact surface 502, and athird grommet contact surface 503. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 500. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 501 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 502.After a pipe is inserted into press fit push seal pipe adapter 500, thegrommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface503. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 26 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 27 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 28 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 29 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 500.

FIG. 30 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 600. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 600 has a firstgrommet contact surface 601, a second grommet contact surface 602, and athird grommet contact surface 603. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 600. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 601 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 602.After a pipe is inserted into the press fit push seal pipe adapter 600,the grommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface603. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 31 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 32 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 33 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 34 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 600.

FIG. 35 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a threaded push sealpipe adapter 700. The threaded push seal pipe adapter 700 has a firstgrommet contact surface 701, a second grommet contact surface 702, and athird grommet contact surface 703. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the threaded push seal pipeadapter 700. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 701 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 702.After a pipe is inserted into the threaded push seal pipe adapter 700,the grommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface703. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the threadedpush seal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 36 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 37 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the threadedpush seal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 38 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the threaded push sealpipe adapter 700.

FIG. 39 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the threaded pushseal pipe adapter 700.

FIG. 40 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 800. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 800 has a firstgrommet contact surface 801, a second grommet contact surface 802, and athird grommet contact surface 803. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 800. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 801 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 802.After a pipe is inserted into the press fit push seal pipe adapter 800,the grommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface803. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 800.

FIG. 41 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 800.

FIG. 42 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 800.

FIG. 43 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 900. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 900 has a firstgrommet contact surface 901, a second grommet contact surface 902, and athird grommet contact surface 903. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 900. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 901 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface 902.After a pipe is inserted into the press fit push seal pipe adapter 900,the grommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contact surface903. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 900.

FIG. 44 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 900.

FIG. 45 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 900.

FIG. 46 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a press fit push sealpipe adapter 1000. The press fit push seal pipe adapter 1000 has a firstgrommet contact surface 1001, a second grommet contact surface 1002, anda third grommet contact surface 1003. A novel grommet in accordance withvarious embodiments above is inserted into the press fit push seal pipeadapter 1000. When inserted, the grommet (not shown) is in contact andforms a seal with first grommet contact surface 1001 and the grommet isin contact and forms a seal with the second grommet contact surface1002. After a pipe is inserted into the press fit push seal pipe adapter1000, the grommet contacts and forms a seal with third grommet contactsurface 1003. The grommet forms a seal with the pipe inserted into thepress fit push seal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 47 is a diagram of a top cross-sectional view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 48 is a diagram of a bottom cross-sectional view of the press fitpush seal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 49 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 50 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of the press fit pushseal pipe adapter 1000.

FIG. 51 is an exploded perspective view of a push seal pipe adapterattached to a U-bend trap.

FIG. 52 is an exploded perspective view of a push seal pipe adapterattached to a U-bend trap.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a push seal pipe adapter installed witha U-bend trap.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a push seal pipe adapter installed witha U-bend trap.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 inaccordance with another embodiment. The push seal tee pipe adapter 1200includes a removable grommet 1201. In the example of FIG. 55 , grommet1201 is shown removed and outside of the push seal tee pipe adapter1200.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 withtest cap 1213 attached.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a push seal tee pipe adapter 1200 withgrommet 1201 installed.

FIG. 58 is a flowchart of a method 1300 in accordance with one novelaspect. In a first step (step 1301), a grommet and tee pipe adapter areformed. The grommet has a first adapter contact surface, a secondadapter contact surface, and a third adapter contact surface. The teepipe adapter has a first grommet contact surface, a second grommetcontact surface, and a third grommet contact surface. In a second step(step 1302), the grommet is inserted into an interior of the tee pipeadapter, thereby forming a push seal tee pipe adapter.

FIG. 59 is a diagram of a bottom perspective view of a grommet 1400. Thegrommet 1400 has a first adapter contact surface 1401, a second adaptercontact surface 1402, and a third adapter contact surface 1403.

FIG. 60 is a diagram of a top perspective view of the grommet 1400.

FIG. 61 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of the grommet 1400.

Although certain specific embodiments are described above forinstructional purposes, the teachings of this patent document havegeneral applicability and are not limited to the specific embodimentsdescribed above. Dimensions in inches are shown in various embodiments;however, it is understood that dimensions vary depending on applicationwithout departing from the scope of the claims. For example, in tubdrain or sink drain applications, the pipe adapter dimensions will havedifferent diameters. Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations,and combinations of various features of the described embodiments can bepracticed without departing from the scope of the invention as set forthin the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a pipeadapter comprising (i) a first pipe coupling end configured to receive afirst pipe, and (ii) a second pipe coupling end configured to receive asecond pipe; wherein the pipe adapter comprises a passageway fluidlyconnecting the first pipe coupling end and the second pipe coupling end;a grommet disposed along the passageway of the pipe adapter between thefirst pipe coupling end and the second pipe coupling end and extendingat least partially along the passageway of the pipe adapter; a test capat least partially received at the first pipe coupling end and along thepassageway of the pipe adapter and engaging the grommet at a positionalong the passageway that is spaced from the first pipe coupling end andthe second pipe coupling end of the pipe adapter to secure the grommetwithin the passageway; wherein, with the test cap at least partiallyreceived at the first pipe coupling end and along the passageway of thepipe adapter and engaging the grommet, an end portion of the test cap isremovable from a remaining portion of the test cap and the pipe adapterto allow the first pipe to be received at the first pipe coupling end ofthe pipe adapter; wherein, with the first pipe received at the firstpipe coupling end of the pipe adapter, the first pipe is positionedalong a passageway of the grommet; and wherein, with the first pipepositioned along the passageway of the grommet, the grommet iscompressed between and seals against the first pipe and the pipeadapter.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the test cap is threadablyreceived along the passageway of the pipe adapter.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the test cap is secured along the passageway of thepipe adapter via adhesive.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thegrommet is compressed between and seals against the test cap and anannular flange of the pipe adapter.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe end portion of the test cap is closed to seal the pipe adapter whenthe test cap with the end portion is disposed at the pipe adapter. 6.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first pipe coupling end isopposite the second pipe coupling end.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the passageway of the pipe adapter comprises (i) a firstpassageway portion at the first pipe coupling end of the pipe adapter,the first passageway portion having a first diameter, and (ii) a secondpassageway portion having a second diameter that is less than the firstdiameter, and wherein a radially extending surface extends between aninner cylindrical surface at the first passageway portion and an innercylindrical surface at the second passageway portion.
 8. The apparatusof claim 7, wherein the radially extending surface comprises an annularsurface.
 9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the grommet comprises (i)a first portion that engages the radially extending surface, and (ii) asecond portion extending from the first portion and at least partiallyalong the second passageway portion.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9,wherein the grommet is secured at the radially extending surface of thepipe adapter via the test cap, and wherein the first portion of thegrommet is compressed between and seals against the test cap and theradially extending surface of the pipe adapter.
 11. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein, with the grommet secured at the radially extendingsurface of the pipe adapter via the test cap, the first portion of thegrommet radially expands and seals against the inner cylindrical surfaceat the first passageway portion.
 12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein,with the first pipe positioned through the passageway of the grommet,the second portion of the grommet is compressed between and sealsagainst the first pipe and the inner cylindrical surface at the secondpassageway portion of the pipe adapter.
 13. The apparatus of claim 9,wherein the second portion of the grommet extends partially along thesecond passageway portion of the pipe adapter, with a distal end of thesecond portion having a diameter that is less than a diameter of aproximal end of the second portion that is at the first portion of thegrommet.
 14. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second portion of thegrommet comprises a conical surface that extends from an inner region ofthe first portion of the grommet, and wherein the conical surface of thegrommet comprises (i) a first outer diameter at a first end of theconical surface at the inner region of the first portion, and (ii) asecond outer diameter at a second end of the conical surface that isdistal from the first end, and wherein the second outer diameter is lessthan the first outer diameter.
 15. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein thepassageway of the pipe adapter comprises a third passageway portion atthe second pipe coupling end of the pipe adapter, the third passagewayportion having a third diameter, and wherein the third passagewayportion is configured to receive the second pipe.
 16. The apparatus ofclaim 15, wherein the third diameter is greater than the seconddiameter.
 17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the third diameter isless than the second diameter.
 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thesecond pipe is threadably received at the second pipe coupling end. 19.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, with the end portion of the test capremoved, the remaining portion of the test cap remains along thepassageway of the pipe adapter and engaging the grommet.